The 'Yellow Vests' Protest for the Fifth Consecutive Week in France

Thousands of 'Yellow Vests' protested on Saturday for the fifth consecutive weekend against Emmanuel Macron's government in various locations across France. The French government had previously urged people to refrain from protests in light of the deadly shooting incident at the Strasbourg Christmas market, but this did not prevent the continuation of protests. The Strasbourg shooting resulted in the deaths of at least three people, and the main suspect was killed two days later in a police operation. According to the French Ministry of the Interior, approximately 33,500 people protested across France on Saturday, which is nearly half compared to the previous week. Paris police estimated the number of protesters in the capital to be less than three thousand. Although the protests on Saturday have been peaceful so far, 46 people have been arrested, which is a significant decrease compared to the previous week when 335 people were detained nationwide. The French Ministry of the Interior reported that 69,000 police forces were deployed in various cities, including Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Saint-Étienne, where the number of police has increased compared to last week. Paris police have also been stationed to prevent further violence in the city, while many shops have opened their doors to customers for the Christmas market this week. One day prior, Emmanuel Macron called for calm to return to France. The French president stated in a meeting with European Union leaders, "France needs to return to calm, order, and normal conditions." The 'Yellow Vests' began their protests five weeks ago initially against rising fuel taxes, but their demands have gradually expanded to include calls for Emmanuel Macron's resignation. On Monday, Macron promised in a televised speech that he would increase minimum wages in France and reduce taxes for retirees.